Destination: ITALY
Things To Know

Tackling Venice
Venetian Glass, Velvet Slippers
Festivals
Gondolas
Getting Around
Tackling Venice

When you first arrive in Venice, don't head straight for the main sights (which will invariably be packed); take time to get a feel for the city, either from the vantage point of a ferry or by strolling the streets and squares. As for accommodations, luxury hotels lining the Grand Canal (Canale Grande) are clearly the optimum choice, but there are many with great charm elsewhere. The sestiere (city areas) of Dorsoduro, San Marco, Castello and San Polo are among the nicest parts of the city to stay. Avoid the area around the train station, which is noisy and less attractive. Under no circumstances should you stay in Mestre, an industrial sprawl across the causeway on the mainland.

Accept that you will do a great deal of tiring walking around the city, and come prepared with comfortable shoes. Make a point of working out your daily itinerary; shortcuts across the city save valuable time. Main routes are clearly marked along the streets by yellow signs. There are numerous tour options; if time is short these can be helpful, and you'll have the benefit of English-speaking guides.

COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany & Florence
CITIES
Rome
Florence
Naples
Venice
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